Don’t get within six feet without one. As of 12:01 a.m. Friday, April 17, face masks, homemade or otherwise, are mandatory in Sonoma County.
The Sonoma County Health Officer has issued a new Health Order requiring that everyone wear facial coverings in public.
If you work and don’t have one, your employer must provide it, according to the rule. And if you try to enter a business — a grocery store or bank, for example — without one, you’ll be turned away.
The rule defines “facial covering” as any fabric or cloth that covers the mouth and nose. The facial covering can be made using common everyday household items, can be sewn by hand, or factory-made; no one needs to purchase a mask in order to comply.
“We hope those in our County understand the importance of complying with these Orders and cover their faces when engaging in essential activities in public,” said Sonoma County Supervisor Susan Gorin. “I would like to emphasize the public’s role in helping stop the spread of COVID-19 by using facial coverings and continuing to stay at home.”
The Order states people must wear a facial covering before they enter an indoor facility (except their home); any enclosed space; an outdoor space where they cannot keep a distance of six feet away from others at all times.
Employers who require their employees to leave their residence to work or provide a service must supply employees with facial coverings, or make sure that employees have access to facial coverings.
Employers may to the extent already authorized by law refuse admission or service to any customer or visitor who refuses to comply.
The health order will go into effect 12:01 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2020.
Dr. Sundari Mase, Sonoma County Health Officer, discourages the public from purchasing medical grade surgical or N95 masks, which should be reserved for healthcare workers. “Facial coverings should be frequently washed, sanitized, or changed, and everyone should wash their hands as soon as possible after touching their facial coverings.”
“These measures recently put in place are having an effect in limiting the spread of COVID-19 in Sonoma County.” Dr. Mase said. “The use of facial coverings is another strategy to stop the virus from spreading from infected people who do not present symptoms. As we approach an expected surge in cases, we are increasing protective measures.”
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